Organizers

Sophia Hoctor, a senior at Danvers High School and member of the National Society of High School Scholars, serves as the Head Organizer for this initiative. Her commitment to the veteran community is deeply personal, rooted in a decade of volunteerism at the Danvers VFW and her active role in the VFW Auxiliary. An accomplished communicator, Sophia’s "Voice of Democracy" essay earned top honors from Post 2359 and Essex County District 10, reflecting her lifelong dedication to articulating the value of service and sacrifice.

This project is a profound tribute to her grandfather, Clyde Allen Dugas, a three-time Purple Heart recipient and Silver and Bronze Star winner. Inspired by his extraordinary bravery, Sophia seeks to go beyond her own family history to capture and honor the stories of all veteran families within the Danvers community. By bridging the gap between generations, she aims to ensure that these narratives of service remain a permanent and honored part of the town’s collective memory.